New Delhi, Feb.24 (ANI): Private carrier Kingfisher Airlines has been asked to pay the balance of its outstanding tax dues within the next eight months after being told to pay an upfront amount of Rs.35 to Rs.40 crores.

Income tax department officials on Friday rejected a Kingfisher Airlines plea that it should be allowed at least 18 months to clear its dues.

Unhappy with Kingfisher's offer to make payments over 18 months period on weekly basis, the I-T Department summoned the airline management for a meeting and made it clear that the status quo prevails.

Kingfisher Airlines has started truncated operations in accordance with its new flight schedule.

There is still uncertainty over moves by a consortium of 13 bankers to offer fresh loan for the beleaguered carrier.(ANI)